Elevation Worship — History and Songs

History and Sound

Elevation Worship grew out of the music ministry of Elevation Church in Charlotte, North Carolina.

Live recordings convey the audience’s participation; in “O Come to the Altar,” this is especially clear in the chorus. The team often works with guest writers and singers. For example, the album “Old Church Basement,” recorded with Maverick City Music, brought together church worship and gospel, while “Jireh” became one of its central tracks. For an introduction to a more energetic sound, try “Praise.”

Albums and Recordings

Two albums provide a good overview of the group’s development. “There Is a Cloud” includes “Do It Again,” where tension builds through repetition of the chorus and bridge. On “Graves Into Gardens,” the title track is led by Brandon Lake, while the guest voices noticeably alter the character of individual tracks. In “Praise,” this approach develops into an open dialogue between several vocalists. That is why the live versions are worth listening to in full: their structure often unfolds through transitions between voices.